Dear Episcopal School of Baton Rouge Community Members,Last night in the Lewis Memorial Chapel of the Good Shepherd, two things became clear to me:

Not all great religious music was written hundreds of years ago.

God still speaks and reveals His presence in Creation.

Mr. Carter Smith, Episcopal’s Director of Choral Activities, conducted our Select Choir (with orchestra accompaniment) in the “Seven Last Words,” a recent composition by Dr. Michael John Trotta, a former student at LSU. The work features seven groups of words from Scripture involved in the Passion of Christ: “Father, Forgive Them” and “My God, Why Have You Abandoned Me?” are among the better-known examples. The four solos were each beautiful. As all The Select Choir voices unified in a moment of crescendo, the presence of the Holy Spirit and Divine inspiration suffused the Chapel. Only the purest truth can unite individuals in such concert and inspire the artistry I witnessed last night.

Contemplating, during that concert, the great and indescribable love God has for us, this verse from the Book of John came to mind. It reminds me, in Jesus’ own words, that this is the least I can do in response to the gifts of love from God:

“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. John 13:34.”

Best wishes for a meaningful end to Holy Week and a safe, enjoyable break.